The holiday season is the season of giving. While it’s important to help those less fortunate have a good holiday, shelter dogs need a hand too. The staff at shelters is more often than not terrific, but dogs have personalities and like to feel special just like us. A small gift can go a long way.
Shelters take a lot of resources to run and can use every bit of help they can get. A well funded shelter means a better life for the dogs who live there. Learn about several easy ways to help shelter dogs around the holidays and discover how you can make a difference in a shelter dog’s life.
Check Their Wishlist
Your local shelter probably has a wish list displayed on their website or facility. While it’s nice to donate whatever you can, if you’re able, get them the items they really need. Some even make it incredibly easy by registering their list with Amazon allowing for direct shipping. It’ll only take a minute or two of your time, and you’ll probably be online anyway when buying gifts for your friends and family.
When donating food, it’s especially important to check their wishlist. Generic food may not always cut it as there might be certain specifications around acceptable food. Some shelter dogs also have special needs and require the more expensive prescription food, so make sure you check for that as well.
No Surprise Gifting
Surprise gifts are incredible and are part of the reason the holidays are such a fun time of the year. However, a pet is probably the worst surprise gift you could give someone. Shelter dogs require years of commitment from the person, and that can’t be imposed on a whim. Even if they’re always talking about getting a dog, you need to make sure they’re completely on board.
Adoption is meant to save two lives, and for the second one to be saved, the first one needs to go to a secure and loving home. Remember, when a dog is adopted, they are saved and their spot in the shelter is filled by another dog that needs to be saved from the streets.
Foster a Dog Yourself
Unfortunately, some foster dogs have been stuck at the shelter for way too long. This may make them grow apathetic, and people aren’t as likely to adopt that kind of dog. When you take one into your home for the holidays, not only do you get their lovable companionship, but they get to experience life outside of the shelter. So, one of the best ways to help shelter dogs around the holidays is to foster a dog for yourself or your family.
When a dog gets to curl up next to the fire in a cozy living room, they’re experiencing something they can’t get in the shelter. A lot of shelters even have supplies ready for you to take if you want to foster a dog so it won’t be such a financial burden.
Don’t Forget About Your Dog
After you’ve done what you can using these ways to help shelter dogs around the holidays, it’s time to get back to spoiling your own dog. One of the best ways is to get them a brilliant charmed collar from Concha Collar. Our collars and charms are a great way for your furry friend to show off their unique personality. Check out our selections today to find the perfect gift for the holidays or any other time of year!